Barclay steps down as candidate for 2017 election

National MP Todd Barclay has today announced he will not stand as the candidate for Clutha-Southland in the 2017 election, and will leave Parliament at the end of this term.

"I got into politics because was inspired by the people I worked for, Bill English, Gerry Brownlee and Hekia Parata. I wanted the opportunity to make my contribution too.

"It was the proudest moment of my life to have been elected the MP for Clutha-Southland. I have been privileged to serve the people of Clutha-Southland's interests and have thrown my heart and soul into working for them.

"I have loved getting to know the 34 communities of this electorate and the people and their concerns have been top of my mind for the past three years. I'm proud of the work have done, and grateful to have worked with so many passionate and amazing people. Thank you.

"I am a proud National Party member. I want to pay tribute to my friends and colleagues in the Party and the National Caucus, who every day are out serving their communities.

"In particular, I want to thank Sarah Dowie, MP for Invercargill, for all her support as we've travelled the last three years together.

"I don't want the issues that are important to Clutha-Southland and all of New Zealand to be distracted by an employment dispute.

"This has been a hard decision to make, but it is in the best interests of our government and the National Party, and I wish the Prime Minister and our team all the best for the General Election.

"I want to acknowledge my family and friends, and the local National Party people for all their love and support.

"I will not be making any further comment."

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